Officials have reported that Alabama State Senator Garlan Gudger sustained injuries in a jet ski accident on Smith Lake and was flown to UAB Hospital on Thursday for medical treatment.
According to a statement released by the Alabama State Senate, Gudger is currently being monitored by doctors after undergoing surgery for internal bleeding and other injuries.
According to the release, although he is currently in the ICU, his doctors have given a positive prognosis for his recovery.
Heather Gudger, wife of Gudger, has issued the following statement:
“We extend our most sincere gratitude to the first responders who promptly arrived at the scene, the helicopter airlift unit, the doctors and nurses at UAB, and all other individuals who aided during this accident. We acknowledge and appreciate their efforts in preventing a challenging situation from turning into something much worse.”
“We appreciate the prayers of healing and comfort from those across the state who have reached out to support our family. We are grateful for the love and care shown to us during this difficult time, and we believe that Garlan is being held in the healing hands of God.”
Garlan’s resilience is well-known to those who are familiar with him. He is a robust and determined individual who will undoubtedly bounce back from his injuries and resume his duties of serving his constituents. In addition, he will continue to advocate for the conservative principles that are so dear to the people of Alabama.
According to the Alabama Senate Republicans webpage, the Cullman Republican secured a seat in the state senate in 2018 through a successful election campaign.
In 2018, Gudger won the seat by defeating a two-term incumbent in the GOP primary, as no Democrat was running for the office. Since then, Gudger has been re-elected without any opposition in 2022.
In 2004, Gudger made history by becoming the youngest person to be elected to the Cullman City Council. He dedicated 14 years of his life to serving on the council, with 10 of those years spent as council president.
Southern Accents Architectural Antiques, an architectural salvage company located in Cullman, is also owned by Gudger.